Upcoming events

    • November 04, 2026
    • 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
    • In Person at Brewed Up Coffee + Coworking 4805 Lawrenceville Hwy Suite 320A Lilburn, GA 30047
    • 47
    Register


    Free registration is required. Registration Opens September 1

    The GEC Small Business Collectives provide a comfortable and confidential environment for small business entrepreneurs to share ideas and discuss the challenges of business. These peer-to-peer gatherings last for 90 minutes, providing a convenient opportunity for busy individuals to come together, network, and collaborate.

    Registration is free, open to the public. Coffee & water provided. Feel free to bring your breakfast. 

    Early Morning Collective

    In person at

    Brewed Up Coffee + Coworking

    4805 Lawrenceville Hwy

    Suite 320A

    Lilburn, GA 30047

    7:30am - 9:00am

    Thank you to our host: Brewed Up Coffee + Coworking 


    Visit our Small Business Collectives Page

    Contact Greg Goebel at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com


    Note: Our small business programs are specifically geared toward adults who are starting or running a small business. In addition, our building is specifically set up as an adult learning and business center. Therefore, we are unable to accommodate children in our groups, classes, workshops, and other events.

    • November 05, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville and Online
    Register

    Gwinnett County’s Supplier Portal

    How to register or update your small business.

    Gwinnett Local Small Business Information Session

    In-person and online | Interactive | Free | No Membership Required

    Registration now open!

    Are you a small business owner interested in doing business with Gwinnett County? Learn how to register or update your business as a Gwinnett Local Small Business in the County’s Supplier Portal.

    Join us for an interactive information session led by the Gwinnett County Access and Opportunity Office. This session will walk you through the registration and update process, explain what it means to be recognized as a Gwinnett Local Small Business, and introduce resources available to support your business.

    What You’ll Learn

    During this interactive session, we’ll cover:

    • What it means to be a Gwinnett Local Small Business.
    • How to register your business in Gwinnett County’s Supplier Portal.
    • How to update your existing business information.
    • Key steps to complete the registration or update process.
    • Where to find information about Gwinnett County’s purchasing processes and general small business support services.

    Why Attend?

    You’ll leave with a better understanding of the Gwinnett Local Small Business designation, practical guidance on navigating the Supplier Portal, and information to help you take the next step toward connecting your business with Gwinnett County opportunities.

    NOTE: This event is also being offered as an evening session on Tuesday, November 10 at 6:00p.m. Click here for more information. 

    Presenter

    Evander Baker
    Program Analyst
    Access and Opportunity Office
    Gwinnett County




    This program is offered in partnership in partnership with the Gwinnett County Office of Access and Opportunity

    ________________________________________

    For further event information please contact Greg Goebel at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.
    • November 05, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
    Register


    If you are interested in learning more about what the Center offers, a great first step is a visit. To accommodate that we are pleased to offer Staff-guided scheduled tours.

    The Staff-guided Tour will walk you through in small groups, escorted by a Center staff member.

    This one-hour tour offers direct insight into the benefits, purpose and mission of the Center as well as an opportunity for questions and answers.

    For more information about the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center visit www.GwinnettEntrepreneurCenter.com  


    • November 05, 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Online
    Register

    Legal Issues in Business: A Fireside Chat with Attorney Roxann Smithers 

    Free Webinar | Registration Required | Any Stage of Business | No Membership Required. 

    Running a business means making decisions every day that can have legal consequences. Join us for an engaging 90-minute fireside chat with business attorney, mediator, and general counsel Roxann Smithers as we explore the legal issues that entrepreneurs and business owners face throughout the life of their ventures.

    Whether you are launching a startup, negotiating contracts, bringing on partners or investors, managing risk, planning an exit strategy, or navigating a business dispute, this session will provide practical educational information to help you make more informed decisions. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear real-world examples, gain a better understanding of common legal pitfalls, and ask questions about the challenges they face in their own businesses.

    Your Takeaways: 

    • Understand the legal issues that impact businesses at every stage of growth
    • Learn best practices for contracts, negotiations, and business agreements
    • Gain insight into business disputes, mediation, and conflict resolution
    • Explore strategies for buying, selling, or transitioning a business
    • Learn when and how a general counsel relationship can benefit your company
    • Discover practical ways to protect your business, partners, and assets
    • Participate in a live Q&A with an experienced business attorney and mediator

    About Roxann Smithers

    Roxann Smithers is the founder of Trust 360° and a business attorney, mediator, and general counsel with a nationwide practice focused on serving entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses. Recognized as a Georgia Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine in multiple years, Roxann advises clients on business law, contract negotiations, corporate governance, dispute resolution, business acquisitions and sales, partner transitions, and growth strategies involving investors and financing. She is also an experienced mediator specializing in business disputes and negotiations. Passionate about entrepreneurship education, Roxann regularly speaks to business organizations and serves as a mentor, advocate, and resource for business owners seeking to build profitable and sustainable companies.

    Your Host

    Greg Goebel is the Center Manager of the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center, where he leads a hub dedicated to supporting small business growth through resources, training, mentorship, and collaborative programs.


    COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

    This session will be available virtually only. Attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

    For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.


    • November 09, 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    • GCPL Snellville Branch, 2245 Wisteria Drive, Snellville, GA 30078
    Register

    Financial Intelligence: Knowing What the Numbers Really Mean by Karen Berman and Joe Knight 

    About the Book Club

    This group isn't just about reading, it's about dynamic interactions that can reshape your business strategies. Join us to engage in insightful discussions and connect with likeminded entrepreneurs.

    We open with a brief book talk, followed by interactive discussion of the topic. Please stay after for some open networking time! 

    • Open to any sector
    • Free registration, no cost to attend
    • Open to any stage of business
    • Read the book or just listen in

    About the Book

    Accessible, jargon-free, and filled with entertaining stories of real companies, Financial Intelligence gives nonfinancial managers the confidence to understand the nuance beyond the numbers--to help bring everyday work to a new level.

    Inc. magazine calls it one of "the best, clearest guides to the numbers" on the market. Readers agree, saying it's exactly "what I need to know" and calling it a "must-read" for decision makers without expertise in finance.

    Since its release in 2006, Financial Intelligence has become a favorite among managers who need a guided tour through the numbers--helping them to understand not only what the numbers really mean, but also why they matter.

    This new, completely updated edition brings the numbers up to date and continues to teach the basics of finance to managers who need to use financial data to drive their business. It also addresses issues that have become even more important in recent years--including questions around the financial crisis and those around broader financial and accounting literacy.

    Contact: Greg Goebel at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com

    __________________________________________________________________


    Sponsored by Accounting Specialties and Tax Solutions. Thank you!


    Note: Our small business programs are specifically geared toward adults who are starting or running a small business. Therefore, we are unable to accommodate children in GEC groups, classes, workshops, and other events.

    • November 10, 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    • In Person at Pinckneyville Recreation Center, 4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Berkeley Lake, GA, 30071
    • 32
    Register

    ENCORE Entrepreneurs Roundtable (50+)

    at Pinckneyville Park Community Center 

    4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Berkeley Lake, GA, 30071

    Registration opens Sept 1! 

    It’s never too late to start something!

    Join fellow adults 50 and up for an engaging and supportive roundtable discussion focused on starting a business in your next chapter. Whether you’re pursuing a long-time dream, turning a hobby into income, or exploring a new purpose after retirement or career transition, this session offers practical guidance and real conversation about what it takes to launch successfully.

    Facilitated by the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center resident mentor, this interactive roundtable provides a welcoming space to share ideas, ask questions, and explore important topics such as business planning, funding options, licensing, marketing, and local resources for entrepreneurs. You’ll leave with greater clarity, confidence, and actionable next steps for moving your business idea forward.

    Seating is limited (please RSVP in advance.)

    Benefits of Attending

    • Learn the essential steps to start and structure your business
    • Explore how to turn your experience, skills, or passions into a business opportunity
    • Get answers to common questions about business planning, business structure, marketing, and local resources for entrepreneurs
    • Discover local resources, workshops, and mentoring programs designed to support entrepreneurs
    • Build confidence by connecting with others beginning a similar journey
    • Network with a supportive community of aspiring business owners ages 50+

    Highlights

    • Free event, no membership required

    • Designed specifically for adults 50 and older
    • Open to anyone exploring or launching a business
    • Practical, discussion-based format
    • Supportive and welcoming environment

    Networking

    The Recreation Center will remain open for 30 minutes following the roundtable so participants can continue conversations, exchange ideas, and build new connections.

    Roundtable Host

    David McCulloch 

    David helps entrepreneurs start and grow businesses as the resident mentor at GEC. His areas of expertise include strategic planning, business development, marketing, and related legal matters. David has over 30 years of experience in senior leadership.


    Event Contact: 

    gec@gwinnettcounty.com 


    • November 10, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
    • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville and Online
    Register

    Gwinnett County’s Supplier Portal

    How to register or update your small business.

    Gwinnett Local Small Business Information Session

    In-person and online | Interactive | Free | No Membership Required

    Registration opens one week before the event.

    Are you a small business owner interested in doing business with Gwinnett County? Learn how to register or update your business as a Gwinnett Local Small Business in the County’s Supplier Portal.

    Join us for an interactive information session led by the Gwinnett County Access and Opportunity Office. This session will walk you through the registration and update process, explain what it means to be recognized as a Gwinnett Local Small Business, and introduce resources available to support your business.

    What You’ll Learn

    During this interactive session, we’ll cover:

    • What it means to be a Gwinnett Local Small Business.
    • How to register your business in Gwinnett County’s Supplier Portal.
    • How to update your existing business information.
    • Key steps to complete the registration or update process.
    • Where to find information about Gwinnett County’s purchasing processes and general small business support services

    You’ll leave with a better understanding of the Gwinnett Local Small Business designation, practical guidance on navigating the Supplier Portal, and information to help you take the next step toward connecting your business with Gwinnett County opportunities.

    NOTE: This event is also being offered as an morning session on Thursday,  November 5 at 10:00am. Click here for more information. 

    Evander Baker
    Program Analyst
    Access and Opportunity Office
    Gwinnett County




    This program is offered in partnership in partnership with the Gwinnett County Office of Access and Opportunity

    ________________________________________

    For further event information please contact Greg Goebel at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.
    • November 12, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville and Virtual
    Register

    The Social Media System Every Small Business Needs 

    with Ceci Robinson, 

    Free Registration Required | In-Person and Virtual Options

    Managing social media as a small business owner doesn't have to be overwhelming, and it won't be once you have the right process and resources in place. 

    If social media is starting to feel like a second job you didn't sign up for, this workshop was built for you. Learn the techniques that keep social media running while you stay focused on strategy and growth.

    We'll break down the top social media platforms so you can make a smart, informed decision about where to show up, walk through real campaign examples so you can see a working plan in action, and send you home with a step-by-step template to start building your own.

    No big budget required! Just a clear system that streamlines your social media so you can get back to actually growing your business.

      About Ceci Robinson

      Cecilla, also known as Ceci, Robinson, is the founder and creative mind behind Robinson Productions. She started the company to give small businesses access to the same strategic marketing big brands use daily. With over a decade of experience and more than 30 brands worked with, Ceci combines creativity, practical systems, and hands-on effort to help each client stand out.


      COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

      This session will be available both as a live, in-person event and virtually.

      You have the option to join us physically in the training room (note that seats are limited) or to attend online. Indicate your preferred mode of attendance during registration.

      Virtual attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

      For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

      ________________________________________

      For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.
      • November 17, 2026
      • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
      • 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
      Register

      Si le interesa saber más sobre lo que ofrece el Centro, un excelente primer paso es visitarlo. Para facilitarlo, nos complace ofrecer visitas guiadas programadas a cargo de nuestro personal. Durante esta visita guiada, usted recorrerá las instalaciones en grupos reducidos, acompañado por un miembro del equipo del Centro. 

      Este recorrido de una hora ofrece una visión directa de los beneficios, el propósito y la misión del Centro, así como la oportunidad de plantear preguntas y recibir respuestas. 

      Este evento se lleva a cabo en español.


      • November 17, 2026
      • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
      • 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
      Register


      If you are interested in learning more about what the Center offers, a great first step is a visit. To accommodate that we are pleased to offer Staff-guided scheduled tours.

      The Staff-guided Tour will walk you through in small groups, escorted by a Center staff member.

      This one-hour tour offers direct insight into the benefits, purpose and mission of the Center as well as an opportunity for questions and answers.

      For more information about the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center visit www.GwinnettEntrepreneurCenter.com  


      • November 18, 2026
      • 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
      • SmartServe Tennis Lab 2975 Breckinridge Blvd Duluth, GA 30096
      Register


      Small Business Collectives Afternoon Mixer at SmartServe Tennis Lab

      In-Person | Free Registration Required

      Location: 

      2975 Breckinridge Blvd

      Duluth, GA 30096

      (Follow GEC signs from business park entrance) 


      Mix it up 


      Join us for a relaxed and engaging afternoon mixer designed to bring local entrepreneurs together in a fun, welcoming environment. And you'll get to see a business that is developing a physical location in real time and hear from business owner Rhonda Martin. 

      What to Expect

      • Enjoy light music, light refreshments, and a casual atmosphere
      • Connect with fellow small business owners and entrepreneurs 
      • Meet & greet the Center Manager and Center staff
      • Share what you’re working on and celebrate your recent wins
      • Learn more about opportunities and resources available at the Center

      Why Attend? 

      • Expand your network with meaningful, local connections
      • Build relationships that can lead to collaborations and referrals
      • Increase visibility for your business in the community
      • Gain new ideas and insights from other entrepreneurs
      • Strengthen your connection to the Entrepreneur Center
      • Leave feeling energized, supported, and inspired

      Host

      Thank you to SmartServe Tennis Lab for hosting this event. 

      • November 20, 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
      • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville and Online
      Register

      Business Readiness for Government Contracting (B2G)

      With Bart Njoku-Obi, SBA 

      No-Cost | Any stage of business | No membership required 

      Who is this for? 

      • Are you looking to diversify customer segments and revenue streams?
      • Is your business ready to expand into federal, state, or local government contracting?
      • Have gameplans for B2G market entry, scalable operations, competitive differentiation, strategic teaming, etc.?

      Training for small business owners

      • Understand market segmentation and new market entry: B2G - Federal, State/Local.
      • Develop your B2G action plan for assessing business readiness, market entry, and closing gaps.
      • Learn how business model analysis and strategic planning can help.
      • How to engage local resources available to get started.

      Meet Our Expert: 

      Bart Njoku-Obi, Business Opportunity Specialist, US SBA Georgia District Office.

      Bart works in the SBA Georgia District Office in Atlanta. Prior to joining SBA, he garnered 18+ years of experience spanning organizational strategy, business model analysis, operations improvement, teaming, and legal counsel. He is entrepreneurial-minded with management or project experience at venture-funded technology startups and large enterprises, coupled with public service in regulatory compliance. He has consulted with firms in Silicon Valley CA, Research Triangle Park NC, Atlanta GA, and overseas.

      Bart is a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) by NASBITE International, and a Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) by the American Society for Quality. He earned his MBA from Wake Forest University in Information Technology Management and E-Business, and Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law. His undergraduate degrees are from NC State University in Economics and Agricultural Economics. Bart is licensed legal counsel in California, North Carolina, and Georgia.

      ________________________________________

      COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

      This session will be available both as a live, in-person event and virtually.

      You have the option to join us physically in the training room (note that seats are limited) or to attend online. Indicate your preferred mode of attendance during registration.

      Virtual attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

      For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.


      For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.
      • December 08, 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
      • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville
      • 46
      Registration is closed


      In-person | Beginner-Friendly | Free | No Membership Required

      Thinking about starting a business? Not sure where to begin?

      Starting a business can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to figure out what to do first. This introductory workshop is designed for people who are considering starting a business or have recently launched one and want to make sure they are on the right track.

      You do not need prior business experience or an established business to attend. We will cover the basics in plain language and help you understand the key steps involved in turning an idea into a business.

      This is a foundational workshop, not an advanced business course. Our goal is to help you understand the process, avoid common mistakes, and feel more confident about your next steps.

      What You'll Learn

      During this beginner-friendly workshop, we'll cover the fundamentals of starting a business, including:

      • Is business ownership right for you? Understand the responsibilities, opportunities, and challenges of running a business.

      • Finding and evaluating a business idea: Explore how to identify a customer need, evaluate an opportunity, and determine whether your idea has potential.

      • Understanding your customers: Learn why identifying your target customer and researching demand are important before investing time and money.

      • Choosing a business structure: Get an introduction to common options, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations.

      • Registering your business: Understand the basics of business registration and licensing requirements, including obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

      • Starting a business in Gwinnett County: Learn about local jurisdiction, zoning, business licenses, and other potential requirements.

      • Setting up your business finances: Explore the basics of separating personal and business finances, bookkeeping, taxes, and insurance.

      • Planning your next steps: Understand the basic roadmap for moving from a business idea toward launch.

      Benefits of Attending

      You'll leave with:

      • A clearer understanding of what it takes to start a business.

      • A practical starting point for evaluating your business idea.

      • Greater awareness of common startup mistakes and how to avoid them.

      • An introduction to the registrations, licenses, and requirements you may need to explore.

      • A better understanding of the resources and professional support available to entrepreneurs.

      • Actionable next steps to help you move forward with greater confidence.

      Who Should Attend?

      This workshop is ideal for:

      • People thinking about starting their first business.

      • Aspiring entrepreneurs exploring business ideas.

      • Individuals turning a hobby, skill, or professional experience into a business.

      • New business owners who want to make sure they have covered the fundamentals.

      • Anyone who wants a straightforward introduction to entrepreneurship before making significant investments.

      No prior experience is necessary. Come ready to learn, ask questions, and take the first steps toward building a strong business foundation.

      Presenter

      David McCulloch 

      As the resident mentor at the GEC, David helps emerging entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. His areas of expertise include strategic planning, business development, marketing, and related legal matters. David is a retired senior executive and licensed attorney with over 30 years of experience in leadership development and business law.


      Important Registration Note

      Please register only if you are committed to attending. Seating is limited, and we want to ensure every available spot goes to someone who can participate. If your plans change, please cancel your registration as early as possible so another aspiring entrepreneur can attend.

      Event Contact: 

      Greg Goebel, gec@gwinnettcounty.com 


      • December 08, 2026
      • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
      • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville
      • 46
      Registration is closed


      Basic Workshops: Basics of Marketing a Business

      In-person | Beginner-Friendly | Free | No Membership Required

      Started a business but not sure how to find customers? Wondering where to begin with marketing?

      You do not need a big advertising budget, an elaborate marketing plan, or advanced technical skills to start marketing your business. But you do need to understand who your customers are, how to communicate your value, and where to focus your efforts.

      This introductory workshop is designed for people who are thinking about starting a business or have recently started one and want to build a solid marketing foundation.

      We'll break marketing down into its basic building blocks and explain how to start reaching the right people without getting overwhelmed by all the available tools, platforms, and strategies.

      This is a beginner-level workshop focused on the fundamentals. Whether you are still developing your business idea or already serving your first customers, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what marketing is and how to put the basics into practice.

      What You'll Learn

      During this beginner-friendly workshop, we'll cover the fundamentals of marketing, including:

      • Understanding your customers: Learn why identifying your target audience is essential and how to begin understanding their needs, challenges, and purchasing decisions.

      • Conducting basic market research: Explore simple ways to learn about potential customers, evaluate demand, and research competitors before investing in marketing.

      • Defining your brand: Understand what a brand is, why it matters, and how your reputation, customer experience, and communication shape how people perceive your business.

      • Communicating your value: Learn how to explain who you serve, what problem you solve, and why customers should consider your business.

      • Building your online presence: Explore the basic roles of a website and Google Business Profile in helping customers find and learn about your business.

      • Getting started with social media: Understand how to choose platforms that make sense for your audience rather than trying to be everywhere.

      • Using networking and referrals: Learn how relationships, satisfied customers, and word-of-mouth recommendations can help attract new business.

      • Marketing on a budget: Explore practical, lower-cost approaches such as networking, referrals, email communication, and helpful online content.

      • Creating a simple marketing plan: Identify your target customer, key message, marketing channels, and initial goals.

      Benefits of Attending

      You'll leave with:

      • A clearer understanding of what marketing is and how it supports business growth.

      • A better idea of who your customers are and how to reach them.

      • A foundation for communicating your business's value clearly.

      • An introduction to practical marketing tools and channels.

      • Ideas for promoting your business without overspending.

      • A starting point for a simple marketing plan you can begin implementing right away.

      Who Should Attend?

      This workshop is ideal for:

      • People considering starting a business who want to understand marketing from the beginning.

      • New business owners who are unsure how to attract their first customers.

      • Entrepreneurs who need help identifying their target audience and communicating their value.

      • Small business owners who want to organize their marketing efforts and focus on the fundamentals.

      • Anyone who wants a practical introduction to marketing before investing in more advanced strategies or services.

      No marketing experience is necessary. You do not need an existing marketing plan or a large online following. Come ready to learn the basics and identify practical steps you can take to help customers discover your business.

      Presenter

      Greg Goebel
      Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center

      Greg Goebel supports entrepreneurs across Gwinnett County through educational workshops, networking opportunities, and connections to business resources. With a background in marketing, communications, digital strategy, and branding, Greg helps business owners clarify their message, strengthen their visibility, and identify practical next steps toward sustainable growth.

      Important Registration Note

      Please register only if you are committed to attending. Seating is limited, and we want to ensure every available spot goes to someone who can participate. If your plans change, please cancel your registration as early as possible so another aspiring entrepreneur can attend.

      Event Contact: 

      Greg Goebel, gec@gwinnettcounty.com 


      • December 10, 2026
      • 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Virtual Webinar
      Register

      Creating Culture as Competitive Advantage

      ONLINE WEBINAR | Free Registration | No membership required

      Most business owners spend significant time thinking about strategy, customers, revenue, operations, and growth. Yet one of the most powerful drivers of all five is often left to develop largely by accident: culture.

      Culture is not simply how people feel about working in your company. It is the system of shared beliefs, behaviors, expectations, decisions, and operating norms that shapes how work actually gets done, especially when the owner is not in the room.

      For growing companies, culture can become either a competitive advantage or an invisible constraint. The practices that helped a founder build a $100k business may not be the same practices required to lead a $500K, $1 million, or $10 million enterprise.

      In this highly interactive 90-minute workshop, Dr. Cornelia Shipley Bearyman will introduce business owners to the principles of Conscious Culture Creation™ and explore how leaders can intentionally create cultures that support strategy, attract and retain the right talent, strengthen execution, improve the customer experience, and enable sustainable growth.

      Participants will examine their own organizations through three lenses:

      What has made us successful?
      What must we protect?
      What must evolve for the business we are becoming?

      Through targeted teaching, reflection, and peer dialogue, participants will leave with greater clarity about the culture their future business requires and one priority they can begin addressing immediately.

      Participants will leave able to:

      • Recognize where culture is currently creating advantage or organizational drag.
      • Understand the difference between stated culture and experienced culture.
      • Identify cultural strengths that should be preserved as the organization grows.
      • Identify behaviors, norms, or leadership practices that may no longer serve the next stage of the business.
      • Define one culture priority that could strengthen business performance over the next 12–18 months.

      Expert Presenter

      Dr. Cornelia Shipley Bearyman

      Dr. Cornelia Shipley Bearyman is the founder of 3C Consulting and a sought-after speaker, professional development and diversity consultant and strategic planning expert who works with clients to expand their capacity, increase their capability and drive clarity in the organization to ultimately increase the retention and advancement of mission critical talent.​

      As an executive development strategist, Cornelia and her team have worked with leaders at Procter and Gamble, Turner Broadcasting ,DaVita, Kaman Industrial Technologies, VMware, Deloitte, GlaxoSmithKline, Hewlett-Packard, Pfizer, Lockheed Martin, Mondelez, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Comerica Bank, Edward Jones, Ascension Health and others as a coach, strategic planning consultant and professional development facilitator. ​

      Cornelia has more than twenty-five (25) years experience in sales, sales training and development, and human resources and is considered among the best in personal and professional development with extensive experience in the consumer goods, health care, financial services, consulting, social enterprise, education, and entertainment industries.​

      Cornelia has been credentialed as both a Professional and Board Certified Coach by the International Coach Federation and Center for Credentialing Education. In addition, Cornelia is a Master Practitioner of Energy Leadership (ELI-MP). Cornelia is the creator and founder of the Women’s Mastery Program, an annual development program for Women at the Director Level and above, designed to empower their career advancement and strategically plan their life and work. Cornelia is the author of the book Design Your Life released in 2014 which spent a week as a best seller. In 2025 she earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Metaphysics with a Concentration in Conscious Business. ​

      Cornelia holds a Master’s of Business Administration degree from the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University where she studied abroad at Melbourne Business School and was a part of the Global Leadership International study program in Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and Japan. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from the University of Michigan.​

      In 2024, Cornelia was inducted into The BOW Collective, an organization of the Nation's top 1% of small business owners.​

      COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

      This session will be available virtually.

      Virtual attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

      For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

      ________________________________________

      For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.
      • December 10, 2026
      • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
      • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville and Virtual
      Register

      Canva + AI for Your Small Business

      with Canva Community Canvassador JoWana Virdi 

      Most entrepreneurs know Canva as a design tool. But when you’re running a business, you need more than another graphic to post.

      In this one-hour workshop, JoWana of JMZ Studios will show how Canva and AI can help you create content, keep your brand consistent, and make everyday marketing feel less overwhelming. You’ll see how one business idea can become a clear, branded post with a simple next step for customers.

      This is a fresh look at what’s changed, what’s useful, and how to choose what makes sense for your business. Whether you’re new to Canva or have used it for years, you’ll leave knowing where to focus first.

      About JoWana Virdi

      JoWana is the founder of JMZ Studios and a Community Canvassador selected by Canva. She helps business owners use Canva and AI to make clearer decisions about their marketing and turn ideas into work they can actually use.

      She’s been using Canva since 2015 and has created more than 10,000 designs. Her workshops focus on practical ways to save time, stay consistent with your brand, and choose the tools that make sense for your business.


      COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

      This session will be available both as a live, in-person event and virtually.

      You have the option to join us physically in the training room (note that seats are limited) or to attend online. Indicate your preferred mode of attendance during registration.

      Virtual attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

      For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

      ________________________________________

      For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.
      • December 11, 2026
      • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
      • In Person at GEC 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville and Online
      Registration is closed

      Leveraging SBA Certifications to Win Federal Contracts

      With Bart Njoku-Obi, SBA 

      No-Cost | Any stage of business | No membership required 

      Is your small business looking to grow with federal prime awards and subcontracts?  

      Learn how SBA certifications and contracting assistance programs can help!

      Training for small business owners

      • SBA certifications overview: HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB, VOSB, 8(a) BD Program
      • Understand which SBA certifications are ideal for your business
      • How to get certified

      Strategies for leveraging SBA certifications

      • Prime awards - competitive set-asides, sole source, etc.
      • Strategic teaming - subcontracting, joint ventures, SBA Mentor Protégé program
      • Identifying prospective teaming partners
      • Local resources and technical assistance to help you.

      Meet Our Expert: 

      Bart Njoku-Obi, Business Opportunity Specialist, US SBA Georgia District Office.

      Bart works in the SBA Georgia District Office in Atlanta. Prior to joining SBA, he garnered 18+ years of experience spanning organizational strategy, business model analysis, operations improvement, teaming, and legal counsel. He is entrepreneurial-minded with management or project experience at venture-funded technology startups and large enterprises, coupled with public service in regulatory compliance. He has consulted with firms in Silicon Valley CA, Research Triangle Park NC, Atlanta GA, and overseas.

      Bart is a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) by NASBITE International, and a Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) by the American Society for Quality. He earned his MBA from Wake Forest University in Information Technology Management and E-Business, and Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law. His undergraduate degrees are from NC State University in Economics and Agricultural Economics. Bart is licensed legal counsel in California, North Carolina, and Georgia.

      ________________________________________

      COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION

      This session will be available both as a live, in-person event and virtually.

      You have the option to join us physically in the training room (note that seats are limited) or to attend online. Indicate your preferred mode of attendance during registration.

      Virtual attendees will receive a link before the program begins.

      For more information, please get in touch with Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center via email at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.


      For further information please contact Greg Goebel at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center at GEC@GwinnettCounty.com.

    Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center. 405 North Perry Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046

    Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software